It may be challenging to get rid of a pimple that has formed in your ear. Moreover, you should not attempt this on your own because you will probably make things worse. Ear and earlobe pimples are discussed in detail, as are their potential causes and the various forms they might take.
Does This Happen Often?
Although acne is most commonly associated with teenagers, it affects people of all ages. At any given time, close to half of the U.S. population suffers from acne. It's the most prevalent skin problem in the United States. However, oil gland-rich areas are especially susceptible to acne. Both your front and back count.
Pimples on the inner ear are also a regular occurrence. Most cases of ear pimples are manageable without a doctor's advice. We'll go into greater detail regarding ear pimples, including what causes them and how to treat them.
What Causes Ear Pimples?
Despite their common occurrence on the face and back, pimples can appear practically anywhere on the body. Skin cells, hair cells, and oil-producing glands are all that is needed for a zit to form in the external ear canal and outer ear.
Zits form when pores become blocked with debris like dead skin cells and sebum, the skin's natural oil that serves to protect and hydrate the skin. Acne can be caused by both bacteria and dirt, so anything that gets any of those things stuck in your ear canal can lead to acne.
Common Reasons For Ear Acne Are:
- Causes include being in dusty or dirty surroundings, having oil-producing glands in the ear, or swapping earphones with someone who has dirty headphones.
- Contact with dirty water, such as from a finger, causing otitis externa (swimmer's ear)
- Stress levels rising
- Allergies to hair or beauty products that enter the ear canal long-term exposure to loud noises (such as when wearing a helmet) hormonal changes (such as during adolescence) unclean or infected piercings (especially if used for long periods)
It is crucial to appropriately identify a pimple to treat it, as several illnesses might present with identical symptoms. A dermatologist can provide expert diagnosis and treatment for skin conditions.
Ear Acne: How To Prevent It And Treat It At Home
If you have tried everything to prevent getting an ear pimple and it hasn't worked, there are a few simple fixes that don't include popping or squeezing the pimple. One method is to apply oil or ointment to the spot many times daily by dabbing it with a cotton ball.
Acne Remedies Using Tea Tree Oil And Aloe Vera
Both tea tree oil and aloe vera have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Acne can be treated by dabbing a cotton swab soaked in a tiny amount of liquid over the affected area. It is important that the active ingredients not enter the ear canal when being applied to the affected area.
Clearing Cream for Acne Breakouts
Ear infections can also be treated with the commonly available ointment from drugstores. Shale oil, which it includes, is antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory.
Acne Treatment With Jojoba Oil
Eliminating acne-causing germs is aided by jojoba oil. A cotton ball can be used to immediately apply it to the affected area. Once the 30 minutes are over, wipe away the remaining oil and any loose dirt. Excellent jojoba oil will be a golden yellow tint.
Types of Ears Pimples
Acne and pimples come in a wide variety of forms. In contrast to the thicker earlobe and helix, which are more likely to produce some types of tumors, the thinner tissues of the external ear and ear canal are more prone to the development of some types of tumors (the skin around the rim of the ear).
Acne vulgaris is just one form of pimple that can appear in and around the ear; there are others.
Whiteheads
When the contents of a clogged pore remain trapped under the skin, a little, non-inflamed white bump forms; this condition is known as a whitehead. Whiteheads are typical of those who suffer from acne, although they can also appear in those who do not. A pimple in the ear might form if a clogged pore becomes infected.
Blackheads
When the contents of a clogged pore are left exposed to air, a blackhead (also called open comedones) forms. The contents oxidize (undergo a chemical change in response to oxygen) and turn black as a result of being exposed to air. Inadequate cleanliness is not to blame for blackheads' dark appearance.
A blackhead, like a whitehead, can develop into an ear pimple if the infected pore that it blocked becomes irritated.
A blockage in an ear pore may affect the sebaceous filament in extreme situations. This is the pathway that sebum takes to reach the skin's surface. In time, this can cause the pore to enlarge, and the contents to harden into a tube-like plug.
Cystic Nodules And Nodules On The Skin Caused By Acne
Nodules (firm lumps) and cysts (fluid-filled sacs) can form when acne penetrates deeper layers of skin (closed, sac-like pockets of tissue). Both can result in severe, long-lasting scarring.
Acne Nodules And Cysts Can Be Divided Into Three Subtypes.
- In comparison to "normal" acne, nodular acne is far more severe. They generate nodules that are hard and painful, much like knots under the skin.
- Cystic acne is characterized by the development of deep, painful nodules packed with pus. The bumps are less severe and less uncomfortable than those caused by nodular acne.
- Acne with nodular and cystic components is called nodulocystic acne.
- Acne of this type typically appears on the earlobe, though it can also manifest deep within the ear canal.
Why Do Pimples Behind The Ear Hurt So Much?
The pain of an ear pimple is well-known, but few people realize that, if given time to heal, they usually pose no serious health risks. You shouldn't worry that the pus from the pimple may seep into your eardrum and trigger an infection.
Dr. Bard explains, "[Ear pimples] are quite uncomfortable because there is cartilage there, and also because the skin is tauter there." It hurts a lot when there's inflammation near the cartilage in the nose or ears or anywhere else.
In some cases, a pimple on the ear canal may not even be acne.
Don't automatically diagnose that ear lump as acne, even if you're a regular earbud user. Seborrheic dermatitis, which is similar to acne in that it appears where oil glands are abundant, is a possibility, according to Dr. Anolik.
Nonetheless, seborrheic dermatitis won't cause as many pinpoint bumps as acne. Instead, it will appear as a red or pink rash with scaling. Sometimes it will cause bumps to appear, similar to a pimple in appearance but with an itchy, raised texture. Acne is bad enough, but he says you can potentially misdiagnose an itchy fungal illness or a severe, scratchy staph infection.
You should consult a dermatologist if you notice anything out of the ordinary happening in your ear, even if you think you know what it is.
Is It Okay If I Pop An Ear Pimple That Has Formed?
It may be tempting to squeeze or pop the pimple, but you should resist the urge. This could either completely remove the imperfection or make it considerably worse. Squeezing a zit can spread the infection and deepen the pores. More irritation and inflammation in the region are possible. Scarring will occur if you squeeze the pimple and the pus come out. A scar may form as a result of the trauma.
Boils form when a pimple becomes infected. These painful lumps are loaded with pus and often respond to the same treatments as acne. A pimple can develop into a boil on its own. Picking, prodding, or squeezing the area can potentially create trauma that leads to this condition.
Treatment
Fortunately, several acne remedies are mild enough to utilize around the delicate ear canal. The use of a heating pad or other warm compress may help alleviate the associated pain and swelling. If you want to get the pus out of a pimple, this may help.
If a pimple drains in this fashion, the affected region needs to be cleaned with a bar of light soap and the discharge removed. In some cases, alcohol or witch hazel can eliminate infections.
Acne Can Be Treated With A Variety Of Medications, Both Over-the-counter And Via Prescription.
- Hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol, antibiotic creams like Neosporin and Polysporin, and salicylic acid-containing NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen are all good options for treating minor skin irritations and infections (Aleve)
- A doctor may prescribe vitamin A-based medicines, either topically or orally, for severe acne. One of the most widespread is tretinoin cream. Isotretinoin is another option, but it is normally reserved for the worst cases.
- Antibiotics like doxycycline and minocycline may be prescribed by doctors to eliminate the germs. However, as antibiotic-resistant bacteria become more common, this therapy option is dwindling in popularity.
- Tea tree oil may lessen the severity of acne, according to some studies.
- Depending on the severity of the acne, a dermatologist may also suggest a specific over-the-counter acne cream or facial cleanser.
Is It Time to See a Doctor?
If you've tried over-the-counter medicines without success or if the pain or discomfort is severe, medical attention is warranted. Get referred to a doctor who specializes in skin diseases and disorders if you think you need a pimple extracted.
To begin the extraction process, the ear must be examined. For ear pimples, the dermatologist will first flush the ear canal with sterile water or eardrop solution before gently suctioning out the pus and debris.
An extractor, like a dental instrument with a loop at one end and a point at the other, is used to do the extraction. Like a lasso, the looped end is positioned around the zit, and then light pressure is applied. The contents of the pimple are therefore brought to the skin's surface. The extracted material is then carefully wiped away with the pointed end (or a cotton swab).
One can use a tool called a punch pen to remove acne from areas outside of the ear canal. Place the pen-like instrument's circular, hollow tip over the zit, and press lightly. With the contents now withdrawn, a cotton swab can be used to clean the area.
Due to the lack of a fat cushion and the direct pressure imposed on the ear cartilage, ear pimple extraction can be uncomfortable. This is just another argument in favor of seeing a medical professional for help.
The Antidote For An Ear Zit
The wisest course of action is to stay out of it. Dr. Bard advises us to just leave things alone.
She does concede, however, that fewer than 10% of her patients take her advice. Dr. Bard recommends using two Q-tips to burst a pimple if it is particularly painful and has come to a very evident head (for example, if the core of the pimple is very white). Only go after what you can see; leave the inner workings of your ear to the dermatologist.
If you can help it, try not to use your hands. Dr. Bard claims that people are more likely to use excessive force when working with their fingers. Furthermore, if you haven't cleaned your hands properly, your nail can cause further stress to the ear and dig microorganisms deeper into the flesh. The possibility of getting sick is raised.
Warm compresses or acne spot treatments with benzoyl peroxide are recommended by Dr. Bard for those who require quick relief from a pimple that hasn't yet reached a head. She also suggests retinoid-based medications like Differin Adapalene Gel Acne Treatment hasten recovery. You can also use a salicylic acid treatment you currently have at home on your facial acne, but it won't be as strong and will likely be gentler.
To What Extent Can Ear Pimples Be Medicated?
To loosen and soften any existing zits, you can try applying a warm compress. There's a chance that the pus will rise to the surface and drain off on its own if you apply heat. If this occurs, swift but careful cleanup of the liquid is required. Doing so could cause extra irritation to the affected area and could also spread the infection. Remember to give the area a good cleaning.
Getting medical help is a must if your breakouts are painful or persistent. They will evaluate your acne and assign it a "grade," such as ranging from mild to severe modest to severe. The treatment plan your doctor suggests will be tailored specifically to you. Your medical care could consist of:
Topicals. Vitamin A is used in both prescription and over-the-counter topical medicines (OTC). Most dermatologists will recommend tretinoin (brand name Retin-A). Find over-the-counter acne treatments at an internet retailer.
A chemical called benzoyl peroxide. Several different over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide products exist. If your acne is mild to moderate, try a 5 percent benzoyl peroxide solution. The mucus membranes in your nose and mouth are examples of open wounds that should be kept away from these solutions. Buy benzoyl peroxide products over the counter.
Antibiotics. Acne-related bacteria can be treated with antibiotics like minocycline (Amzeeq, Minocin) or doxycycline (Doryx, Doryx MPC) prescribed by your doctor. Antibiotics used to be a common acne treatment, but they are losing favor. Antibiotic resistance and its treatment of it are becoming increasingly controversial.
Medications are taken by the body as a whole. Isotretinoin, a vitamin A-derived systemic medication, is often reserved for extremely severe cases of cystic acne. They deliver the goods, yet there are many negative consequences associated with their use. If you have severe acne, the lesions it causes may hurt. NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen can be used as a first, appropriate treatment (Naprosyn). If these measures don't work, your doctor may suggest medication.
Acne medications have the potential to cause dangerous and intricate interactions with one another. For instance, several studies have found that antibiotics diminish the efficiency of hormonal contraceptives. Some antimicrobials, vitamin A compounds, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been linked to an increased risk of sun sensitivity.
Inquiring Minds Want To Know: Did You Know?
Acne treatments may not show results for several weeks or months.
Is it a Pimple?
While acne is the most common cause of lumps in the ear, it's not the only possible cause. A problem with lumps in and around the ear that may go unseen until they become a concern is that we cannot see our ears.
It's also possible to have other types of ear lumps that look like pimples, such as:
- Sebaceous cysts, which are subcutaneous pimples that don't seem to grow or expand extremely slowly, are common skin conditions.
- Small injuries around the ear might result in the development of keloid scar tissue. A hypertrophic scar is an area of elevated, black scar tissue that can be significantly larger than the initial incision.
- Common and innocuous skin growths known as seborrheic keratoses typically manifest as slightly elevated, brownish patches of skin.
- A rare skin disorder known as acanthoma fissuratum, it often presents as a raised hump. If you wear glasses, you are more likely to experience this.
- Blind pimples, sometimes known as boils, are identical to regular pimples but develop deeper in the skin, where they can cause greater discomfort. Most of the time, they hide their heads.
- However, certain ear lumps may be malignant basal cell carcinomas.
- Any protrusion found in or around the ear should be evaluated medically for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Prevention
It is possible to treat acne in the ear in the same way you would treat acne on your face, as both Dr. Zeichner and Dr. Anolik explain.
Apply standard treatments for acne, including cleansers.
When it comes to ear acne, Dr. Anolik recommends using the same cleansers you would use on your face. Acne-causing bacteria can be reduced with the use of ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, which you should look for. Dr. Zeichner suggests using salicylic acid or an over-the-counter retinoid like adapalene to get rid of blackheads. The former aids in the removal of oil and dead skin from the skin's surface, while the latter soothes the skin and keeps skin cells from clumping together to block pores.
As Dr. Anolik points out, it's more convenient to use these items in the shower than at the sink for washing your ears. Apply the lotion by lathering it in your hands, massaging it over your ear (taking care not to push any of the liquid into your inner ear), and then rinsing it off 30 seconds later.
Sample these Products
Adapalene.01% Gel from Differin ($15 on Amazon)
Spot Treatment, Rapid Relief from Acne by Murad ($22, Dermstore)
Use the CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser (about $15 on Amazon) to get rid of acne.
The earwax in your ears needs your attention.
As was previously indicated, a buildup of ordinary earwax can have an occluding effect. Even more so, if you use something in your ears frequently, like earphones, that combination can easily prove to be a double whammy for creating ear acne. Don't just stick a Q-tip in your ear without looking if you tend to get earwax buildup. Dr. Anolik suggests an inner ear cleanser, such as Debrox ($7 on Amazon).
Purge your Headphones' Ear Canals
In many ways, this is the most basic preventative step you can take: You should clean your headphones or earbuds with a tissue, a solution of mild soap and warm water, or specialized towelettes before you use them, say, for your morning commute. Even if your earbuds don't emerge from your ears spotless every time, cleaning them on sometimes will remove any earwax, oil, or bacteria that clung to them after your last use. This will reduce the amount of muck that gets trapped in your ear when you put them back in. If they are still aggravating your skin after reducing the frequency of their use, Dr. Zeichner suggests removing them completely.
Do Not Slack Off On Your Efforts To Combat Acne.
Dr. Zeichner warns that even after your acne has cleared up, you should still have a maintenance strategy in place in case it returns. Acne-specific cleansers, retinoid therapies, and spot treatments are all possible additions. If you don't already have a plan like this, you may want to consult a dermatologist who has passed the appropriate board exams.
Additionally, Dr. Anolik advises staying away from comedogenic products on your face and in the area around your ears because they can clog pores and lead to an increase in acne. Instead, you should seek out goods that have been labeled as noncomedogenic.
Don't Wait For Things To Go Better Before Seeing A Dermatologist.
Dr. Anoilk recommends seeing a dermatologist if your ear breakouts are more severe than mild, meaning they are more deeply embedded in the skin and cause you pain. Acne can be evaluated, and then a stronger medication, such as a retinoid or antibiotic, might be prescribed if necessary.
Ear bumps are more of a nuisance than a serious health issue. You can reduce the likelihood of breakouts occurring by maintaining regular anti-acne hygiene practices. Even if they do appear, though, they can be handled like any other pimple problem. Your skin will appreciate you for putting down the podcast for a bit.
Conclusion
Ear pimples, like other pimples, can be caused by the same things, but they're more painful and hard to treat because they're located in the ear canal. The slow disappearance of zits might be aided by using home treatments or OTC topical medicine.
A medical professional (such as a dermatologist) can safely remove them if these don't help or if the agony is too much to bear. Don't ever try to pop a zit in your ear by yourself.
